April 4, 2024

Joab strongly chastised David for not cleaning himself up to meet and compliment the men for their victory over the usurper, Absolom, and his army. He grieved his son. However, David saw his error, acquiesced, anointed his head with oil, and went to the gate to meet the people. Even though David could rightfully regain access to his home and throne, he wanted all the tribes to invite him back rather than retake it by force, so he waited for them to agree before assuming power. He sent his priest to encourage them to invite him back. David pardoned his servants who rallied against him because they begged forgiveness. 

Remember Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul? Ziba lied to David about him, saying he was waiting in Jerusalem to take over the kingdom. Because of his lies, David gave Ziba everything that belonged to Mephibosheth, but Mephibosheth met him and told him what Ziba had done, so David made them split his estate between them. 

David was a fair king and forgave his enemies just like Jesus did. If David could forgive all those who came against him, why can't we forgive minor issues? We must learn from David, follow Jesus' words, forgive our enemies, and live a life of peace. We do not have to entertain those who've grieved us, but we must forgive them and move on. 

Therefore the king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not die. And the king sware unto him. 2 Samuel 19:23